WELCOME TO FRESH 2023

‘Action is character’

It simply means that what a character does, in a story, usually reveals more truth about them, than what they might say. Because what people say can sometimes be a lie. They may say things that they believe, but when it comes to the crunch, they may not be able to act on that conviction, for many reasons.

It’s not surprising that this phrase ‘action is character’ can be applied in real life too. Because when we act on the courage of our convictions or indeed decline to, we reveal who we are.

Today you are filmmakers.

Whatever inspiration, inclination or accident brought you to this point, you’ve made a film. It might be as part of a group or you might have worked at it on your own, but your actions have caused a film to be made and you’ve revealed yourself to the public as filmmaker. That is your role.

Whatever happens, whether you win a prize or not, that’s out of your hands now. But what you do in the future, whether in the arts or in another career, is entirely within your control and your actions will act as markers showing the path you took.

For today, you are filmmakers, Sit back, let the lights go down and watch the worlds you’ve created unfold.

Jayne Foley Festival Director

Email: info@freshfilmfestival.net

Web: www.freshfilm.ie

My Brothers And I

Feature Screening | Odeon Cinema Castletroy | March 27 | 10am

Director: Yohan Manca

France • 2021 • 108 mins • French with English subtitles • Drama

This year’s French film choice sees the youngest of four brothers, 14-year-old Nour, help care for his mother who is in a coma. Remembering her passion for Italian Opera, Nour plays it for her, all whilst beginning to develop a passion for the music himself. Despite rising tensions at home, Nour dreams of escape. With each brother struggling day to day to make ends meet, a chance meeting with opera singer Sarah offers Nour the opportunity to explore new horizons and come into his own.

Contains brief scenes of a violent nature. Presented in Association with IFI Schools Programme

Animation In The Classroom Flip Book Workshop With Magpie6 Media

Workshop | Corpus Christi Primary School | March 27 | 10am

Ever wanted to know how your favourite movies and cartoons are made? Fresh International Film Festival’s Junior Animation Workshop, hosted by the brilliant Ennis based animation company Magpie 6 Media, brings animation to life through flip-books. Magpie6 Media have years of experience in animation, making such shows as Brewster the Rooster, Rock-a-bye Island and The Wee Littles and have worked with RTÉJr, Warner Bros. and Disney.

TUESDAY 28TH MARCH

An American Tail

Feature Screening | Belltable Arts Centre| March 28 |10am

Director: Don Bluth

Ireland • 1986 • 80 mins

• English

• Animation

Made in Ireland in 1986, An American Tail tells the story of a young mouse named Fievel Mousekewitz and his family as they emigrate from Russia to the United States by boat after their home is destroyed by cats. During the trip, a fierce storm throws Fievel from the ship, and he loses contact with his family. Luckily, he manages to sail to New York in a bottle. There, Irish mouse Bridget, an Italian mouse named Tony and a kindly cat named Tiger help Fievel search for his loved ones. This animated family adventure is as cute as they come! Suitable for Primary school students from 5 to 12 yrs. The film can be used to discuss themes of Refugees and Migration.

Introduction To Writing For Film In The Classroom With Fighting Words

Workshop | Thomond Community College | March 28 | 11:00am

Every great film starts with an idea. Learn to take that idea and develop it into a full blown treatment! Fresh International Film Festival’s Writing workshop is offered in collaboration with Fighting Words Limerick, Designed to promote creativity and writing as a fun means of self-expression, this workshop celebrates how everyone has a unique story to tell.

WEDNESDAY 29TH MARCH

CAREERS IN SCREEN MID-WEST

Wednesday 29th March |

Limerick College of Further Education and Training, Mulgrave St. | 10:00

Ever wondered how to get started in the film and television industry?

Careers in Screen is a panel lead interactive event for students, designed to highlight the variety of career paths in film and television. The event explores the range of skill sets involved in film, and takes a deeper look at the screen industry in the Midwest. Experienced speakers discuss their experiences in the screen sector and give insights into the collaborative process of film production. The event also highlights screen developments in the region and how to get involved.